The Forgotten

The Invisible

Elder abuse is a hidden epidemic. It happens in family homes, in care facilities, in financial institutions, and online. Its victims are often isolated, physically vulnerable, cognitively impaired, or emotionally dependent on the very people who are harming them. Most cases are never reported.

The forms it takes are varied: physical abuse, emotional and psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect by caregivers, and self-neglect caused by isolation and depression. All of them share a common feature — they are made possible by the silence around aging in America.

We do not look at the elderly. We look past them. Castaway Warriors refuses to.

The Numbers

1 in 10
Older Americans — approximately 5 million people — experience some form of abuse each year
1 in 24
Cases of elder abuse are ever reported to authorities — the vast majority remain invisible
$36.5B
Lost annually to elder financial exploitation — one of the most rapidly growing forms of elder abuse
60%
Of elder abuse is perpetrated by family members — people the victim trusts and may depend on for daily care

Understanding Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is defined broadly as any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. It encompasses far more than physical violence.

The Forms It Takes

  • Physical abuse — hitting, pushing, restraining, inappropriate use of medications
  • Emotional abuse — humiliation, threats, isolation, intimidation
  • Financial exploitation — stealing money, forging checks, misusing power of attorney, scams
  • Neglect — failure to provide food, medical care, hygiene, or safety — by a caregiver or through self-neglect
  • Sexual abuse — any non-consensual sexual contact
  • Abandonment — desertion by a caregiver

Why It Goes Unreported

  • Victims may fear retaliation, loss of their caregiver, or placement in a nursing home
  • Cognitive impairment may prevent victims from recognizing or reporting abuse
  • Shame — particularly around financial exploitation — keeps many victims silent
  • Isolation means no one outside the home sees what is happening
  • The abuser may be a family member the victim loves and does not want to get in trouble

Warning Signs

  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, or weight loss
  • Sudden changes in financial situation or missing funds
  • Withdrawal from normal activities or social connections
  • Caregiver speaking for the older person in all situations
  • Poor hygiene, soiled clothing, or untreated medical conditions
  • Fear, anxiety, or depression without clear cause

If you suspect elder abuse: Contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11, or your local Adult Protective Services agency.

What You Can Do

The Silence Ends When We Name It

Most elder abuse goes unreported because no one is watching. Learn the warning signs. Check on the older people in your life. Make sure they know someone is paying attention.

Find Resources Contact Us